Real talk. Radical healing. Deep empowerment — straight to your inbox.

Real talk. Radical healing. Deep empowerment — straight to your inbox.

Mackie Sherman Mackie Sherman

Healing from Toxic Relationships: Recognizing the Signs and Taking Back Your Power

If you’ve ever felt drained, anxious, or just plain unhappy after spending time with someone, whether it’s a partner, family member, or friend — you might be dealing with a toxic relationship. And you’re not alone.

Toxic relationships sneak in quietly. They might start with little red flags that seem easy to overlook, but over time, they chip away at your confidence, your peace, and your sense of self.

So, how do you know if a relationship is toxic? And more importantly, how do you begin to heal and reclaim your power? Let’s dive in.

What Does a Toxic Relationship Look Like?

Here are some common signs you might recognize:

  • You constantly feel drained or anxious around this person.

  • Your boundaries get ignored or pushed.

  • You find yourself apologizing all the time, even when you haven’t done anything wrong.

  • You’re afraid to express your true feelings because you worry about the reaction.

  • You notice patterns of manipulation, guilt-tripping, or control.

  • Your self-esteem takes a hit when you’re with or thinking about them.

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s a sign that this relationship is hurting you, not helping you grow.

Why Do We Stay in Toxic Relationships?

It’s natural to want connection and love, even if it’s not healthy. Sometimes we stay because:

  • We hope the person will change.

  • We fear being alone.

  • We’ve learned unhealthy relationship patterns from childhood.

  • We don’t fully realize how much damage it’s causing.

But staying can keep you stuck in a cycle of pain and self-doubt.

Taking Back Your Power: Steps to Healing

  1. Acknowledge the Truth: Recognizing the relationship is toxic is the first brave step. Give yourself credit for this awareness.

  2. Set Boundaries: Start small. Say no to things that don’t feel right. Your boundaries are your protection.

  3. Practice Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. You deserve kindness — especially from yourself.

  4. Reach Out for Support: Healing doesn’t have to be solo. Whether it’s friends, family, or a therapist (that’s where I come in), having someone who understands can make all the difference.

  5. Focus on Rebuilding Your Self-Esteem: Toxic relationships can erode your confidence, but you can rebuild it step by step. Celebrate small victories and remind yourself of your worth every day.

You Deserve Healthy, Loving Relationships

It’s hard to heal from toxic relationships on your own, but it’s possible, and it starts with you choosing yourself. When you commit to your healing journey, you open the door to relationships that lift you up, respect you, and nurture your soul.

If you’re ready to take back your power and heal from toxic patterns, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Book a consultation call with me and let’s start your path to empowerment and peace.

I offer individual sessions online and, offer group events and retreats in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Remember, healing is a journey — and you don’t have to walk it alone.

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